Ushguli is a region that consists of four separate Georgian villages and is recognized as UNESCO … [+] World Heritage.

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publisher’s Note: * Due to the current Covid-19 outbreak, you should postpone all travel plans until well after the end of the pandemic. *

As the global tourism industry struggles amid this unprecedented downturn, many nations around the world are preparing for a boom in international visitors once travel becomes more practical – for some countries, this could be their first opportunity to establish themselves as a prominent region for power tourism. While the following countries are not yet world-class destinations, all the ingredients are there – pristine natural beauty, historic ruins, and fascinating cultural experiences can be found in abundance in all seven of these greatly underrated nations.

Ethiopia

Abidjatta Shalla National Park is located in the Great Rift Valley, a popular destination for … [+] those who hope to spot Ethiopian wildlife.

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Of the 54 nations that make up Africa, one could argue that Ethiopia has the most intriguing historical background – it was the second civilization in the world to adopt Christianity, the only African nation to conquer a European power in battle and itself during This period colonialism resisted the scramble for Africa, and it is believed that our earliest human ancestors came from this fertile region first. Visitors to this unique country will find a truly diverse spectrum of natural beauty – on the western fringes of Ethiopia is lush rainforest that quickly gives way to the high peaks of the Ethiopian highlands if you venture east. If the rich history and spectacular natural sites don’t bring this nation to glory, then national cuisine certainly will – eating injera by hand is a cultural experience that everyone should partake in at least once in their life.

Iran

Lar National Park in Iran

Lar National Park has been a protected area since 1982 and is located just outside the capital … [+] from Tehran.

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Decades of geopolitical disputes have dealt a major blow to Iran’s reputation, but it cannot be denied that the country’s cultural heritage is one of the most fascinating in the world. The nation is a true delight for historians – Persepolis, an ancient city that served as the capital of the Achaemenid Empire some 2,500 years ago, is just a short journey northeast of Shiraz, while the ancient city of Hamedan is still populated today. There is a really wide range of activities to be found across the country – visitors can ski in Dizin, sunbathe on white sandy beaches in Hormozgan Province, and explore lush forests in Gilan Province, while fascinating mosques and Zoroastrian temples can be found all across the country Nation. While visa requirements are a tough hurdle to overcome, one can only hope that geopolitical tensions cool in the future and allow this enchanting nation to reach its full potential as a welcoming tourist destination.

Myanmar (Burma)

Pagoda landscape in the Bagan Plain, Myanmar.

Bagan served as the capital of the pagan kingdom, the first settlement to conquer the country … [+] make up today’s Myanmar.

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Prominent tourist destinations like Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia have already made Southeast Asia a world-class destination for tourists, but the region is still full of hidden gems, with Myanmar, also known as Burma, being considered one of the most underrated. The country is endowed with many of Thailand’s most delightful attributes – ornate Buddhist temples, remnants of ancient civilizations, and bustling cities – while the developing economy allows more budget-conscious travelers to explore the city without breaking the bank. The capital of Naypyidaw is a planned city that is characterized by its enormous size and small population (resulting in very little traffic), while the former capital, Yangon, is home to the country’s most sacred Buddhist pagoda and a wide range of English colonial architecture.

Georgia

Tbilisi Downtown, Georgia, captured in April 2019

The structure above the old city is known as “Narikala” – this particular fortress was … [+] Built in the 1990s to replace a 12th century church that was lost in a fire.

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Although sometimes confused with the Peach State, the country of Georgia is well on its way to becoming one of the most idyllic travel destinations in the Caucasus region. Start your trip in the capital Tbilisi – this charming city is home to a cobblestone old town with old churches and restaurants along the Mtkvari River. While urban Georgia is spectacular, the natural beauty of the country shouldn’t be missed – the rolling pastures and idyllic small towns to the west are a must-see and be sure to sample your fair share of wine as you explore. Georgia is one of the oldest wine regions on earth. There is evidence of a booming wine industry that began as early as 6000 BC. BC reaches back.

The Phillipines

Landscape of Coron, Busuanga Island, Palawan Province, Philippines

Coron is a well known tourist destination in Palawan Province and is known for its world class … [+] Dive sites.

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With around 7,500 islands, this huge archipelago has something to offer even the most discerning tourist. On the northernmost island, Luzon, is Metro Manila, a really huge metropolis with 16 cities. The state capital, Manila, and the country’s most populous settlement, Quezon City, are two popular destinations for a deep immersion in mainstream Filipino culture. Those keen to laze on the sandy beaches should head to Visayas, the country’s central archipelago, where island destinations like Palawan and Boracay offer some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the country, as well as countless opportunities to spot some of the Philippines’ endemic plant and animal species.

Slovenia

Lake Bled with Pletna and Bled Castle

Lake Bled is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Slovenia … [+] Shore from above on a ledge.

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Many of Slovenia’s close neighbors – more specifically Italy, Croatia and Austria – attract large numbers of tourists each year, while this small mountain nation remains one of the region’s most underrated gems. The capital Ljubljana is an important cultural center of the region. It offers world-class art and history museums as well as ornate centuries-old cathedrals and a spectacular castle overlooking the old town. After a thorough exploration of the city, head north to the Julian Alps – this stunning mountain range was named in honor of Julius Caesar, much of which lies within the boundaries of Triglav National Park, where the natural beauty of lies Slovenia is to be found in abundance.

Tunisia

View from Byrsa hill with ancient remains of Carthage and landscape

Carthage was a major city-state within the Phoenician Empire, although it was ultimately destroyed … [+] around 146 BC After a decisive fight against Rome.

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Tunisia, with its picturesque Mediterranean beaches, ancient ruins and Maghrebi cuisine, is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the vibrant and unique culture of North Africa. For many potential visitors, the country’s vast coastline is a major draw – the northeastern Cap Bon peninsula is full of idyllic white-sand beaches, and the bustling capital Tunis is not far away. For history buffs, the remains of Carthage, one of the richest cities in the Classical era, are a must-see, while more daring adventurers can head south for a tour of the Sahara, the perfect destination for encountering remains of historic Berber settlements.